WHAT CAN I MAKE?

3D printers are useful tools for making scale models, prototype parts, replicas, artwork, casting molds, and much more. Files for 3D printing can be found online at websites such as Thingiverse, Printables, and Cults3D, or they can be designed in 3D modeling programs such as Fusion 360, OnShape, or Shapr3D.

ACCESS

• You must be trained and stamped off to use a 3D printer independently. 

• If you want to make something on one of the 3D printers but haven't gotten your 3D printer stamp yet, you can make a reservation to use it and work with staff to print your file. 

• BEFORE YOU MAKE YOUR RESERVATION, you must have your completed file ready in STL Format. 

• The cost of your 3D print is based on the per-gram price of the filament. Fimbel staff will calculate the total cost of your print job and take payment before running the file.

TRAINING

Training for the 3D printers usually takes place over the course of several visits.  During the initial visit, you will learn about 3D printer interfaces, startup/shutdown procedures, safety protocols, materials, and file management.  You will also try printing a file. 

After the initial visit, please read through our 3D printer documentation and book time on one of the printers for supervised practice sessions. 

Once you are comfortable with the equipment and have read our documentation,  you can make an appointment to take the 3D printer test and receive your stamp. 

Training is available with the professional staff by making an appointment on Pathways or with student staff during Open Hours by prior appointment or as demand allows.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON TRAINING AND STAMPS, CHECK OUT OUR TRAINING PAGE

MATERIALS

Fimbel Lab stocks UV resin for our Form2 printer and a small quantity of filaments in various colors for each of the other 3D printers. The materials we use most frequently are PLA, ABS, and PVA.  If you have your own filament and would like to use it with our printers, please check with the Fimbel staff first.